Tanning Without the Sun
Try a self-tanning product to give you that bronzed look without the sun damage that can cause wrinkles and skin cancer.
Dec 14, 2016
May 15, 2023
Your WellnessSheryl Kraft, a freelance writer and breast cancer survivor, was born in Long Beach, New York. She currently lives in Connecticut with her husband Alan and dog Chloe, where her nest is empty of her two sons Jonathan. Sheryl writes articles and essays on breast cancer and contributes to a variety of publications and websites where she writes on general health and wellness issues. She earned her MFA in writing from Sarah Lawrence College in 2005.
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Skin Fact: "Whether you're at the beach or in your own backyard, keep in mind that about 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers and about 86 percent of melanomas can be attributed to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation." —Skin Cancer Foundation
I can't help but think my skin looks better when it's tan. It works wonders for covering up the uneven sun spots and veins that have taken up residence on my legs. But for my fair, freckled complexion, tanning by natural means is impossible—and a danger.
That's why I was so happy when self-tanners came on the market.
But when they first appeared, the results were less than pretty. The odor: putrid. The color: anything-but-natural—an orange-y, fake hue (complete with streaks) that looked like I'd smeared melted Cheetos all over my body.
Thank goodness so many chemists jumped on the bandwagon, realizing that this was something with promise and something that could save lives. (OK, maybe I'm being dramatic here, but when you consider that every 52 minutes someone dies of melanoma, any alternative to tanning is a win-win, no?)
What You Need to Know
Self-tanners (aka sunless tanning products) come in lotions, creams and sprays. Or, you can have a professional apply a spray-on tan. (I tried that recently and loved the results!)
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is a color additive that, when it comes in contact with dead skin cells on your skin's surface, temporarily darkens the skin. Voila! You have a tan—albeit a temporary one, wearing off after a few days.
Are they safe? DHA has been approved by the FDA for this specific use. The FDA does caution that DHA should not be inhaled or applied to areas like the lips or nose or around the eyes (any area that is covered by mucous membranes).
Be careful not to let your eyes fool you and tell you that you already have a "base" tan and therefore can't burn. You still need sunscreen outdoors, as always. And remember that most self-tanners don't contain sunscreen. If they do, the protection will only last for a few hours.
If You're Tempted Just to Swallow a Pill
Don't do it. The pills typically contain a chemical called canthaxanthin, a color additive, which not only turns your skin orange or brown but can also cause hives, liver damage and even vision problems.
How to Create the Best Fake Tan Ever
Here's what the
American Academy of Dermatology advises:
If You're Going to Get a Spray-On Tan, Know This
Make sure to ask about protecting your eyes, lips, nose and ears. And another good question: "How will I be protected from inhaling the spray?" (Some options include nose plugs, lip balm, a nose filter and goggles. Throw away your pride for a moment, in the interest of your health, OK?)
And Lastly, How to Make It Last
Keep your skin well-moisturized. Before you step into a bath or shower, apply a body oil, which can create a barrier on your skin.
After showering or bathing, lightly towel off (resist the urge to rub—that will take some color off!) and moisturize again. I love this product from Jergens, which not only moisturizes, but combines hydration with a little self-tanner, so you can gradually build up and maintain your color.
What to Say When Someone Says, "You Look So Good!"
"I'll gladly share my healthy secret with you. Let's sit and chat outside—in the shade, preferably."
My Wish List of Self-Tanners
St. Tropez Mousse is a super-lightweight, easy-to-apply, tinted mousse that dries in 60 seconds.
Another by St. Tropez lets you tan in the shower and rinse off after 3 minutes.
This post originally appeared on mysocalledmidlife.net.